Clear
Exfoliating is an essential skincare step that can truly transform your complexion. Exfoliating your skin 1-2 times a week can improve the efficiency of your skincare routine and help your products be absorbed more effectively while leaving your skin smoother, brighter and healthier. However, not all exfoliants are created equal, and some can have some pretty intense side effects. Here are major exfoliation mistakes you might be making and how to avoid.
DO – Learn to love acids
Products containing Beta Hydroxy and Alpha Hydroxy Acids exfoliate the dull, flaky layers of your skin and leave it incredibly smooth. They also rapidly increase cell turnover, so you can fight signs of aging and clear breakouts quickly. Try our Age Defying Exfoliating Pads to improve skin texture and fight aging in one simple step.
DON’T – Use harsh abrasives
While a quality product made with gentle and effective ingredients can do wonders for your skin, others can have the opposite effect. Many popular “scrubs” contain large, jagged abrasives made from fruit pits, nutshells, sea salt , and even sugar. Although your skin might feel smooth initially, if you viewed your skin under a microscope you would see tiny, microscopic tears (not unlike etching in wood after being sanded). These micro-tears can lead to redness, inflammation and uneven skin texture.
DO – Use natural enzymes
Who says natural products aren’t effective? An excellent way to gently exfoliate is with fruit enzymes. These non-abrasive exfoliants melt away dead skin by breaking down the keratin in the skin which then allows the dead skin at the surface to be removed. Fruit Enzymes in particular (like those found in pineapple and papaya) are excellent for even the most sensitive skin since they are significantly less harsh than other chemical exfoliants. Try fruit enzymes in our selection of masks and peels.
DON’T – Use microbeads
They might seem harmless, but plastic microbeads in skincare products are extremely detrimental to the environment. Once they enter bodies of water, they have the potential to kill wildlife and destroy entire ecosystems. Protect the earth’s oceans and marine life by opting for skincare that is free of microbeads.
Are you guilt of making any of these exfoliation mistakes?
